Katz’s Delicatessen NYC Google Reviews: A Complete Summary of What Customers Say
Katz’s Delicatessen, located at 205 East Houston Street on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, is one of New York City’s most famous traditional delicatessens. Founded in 1888, the restaurant is particularly famous for its hand-carved pastrami sandwiches, enormous portions, old-fashioned Jewish deli atmosphere and its appearance in popular culture, including the movie When Harry Met Sally.
Its Google review profile is enormous. The current listing has approximately 4.5 stars from more than 55,000 Google reviews. This means that the overall rating is based on an unusually broad range of visitors, from New York residents and food enthusiasts to international tourists visiting the city for the first time.
The dominant message from the reviews is remarkably consistent: the pastrami is the star, the portions are enormous, the atmosphere is historic and energetic, but the crowds, complicated ordering system and high prices can make the experience stressful.
1. Pastrami Is the Main Attraction
The overwhelming theme in the Google reviews is pastrami.
Customers repeatedly describe the pastrami sandwich as tender, juicy, flavorful and generously portioned. Many reviewers specifically mention that the meat is hand-carved directly at the counter, which becomes part of the dining experience.
Recent Google reviewers describe the pastrami as “out of this world,” exceptionally tender and packed with flavor. Another recent visitor called the pastrami sandwich iconic and praised its combination with fresh rye bread and mustard.
The size of the sandwich is another frequently mentioned feature.
Katz’s does not appear to take a minimalist approach. Customers receive a substantial quantity of sliced meat between pieces of rye bread, and reviewers often say that one sandwich can be enough for two people depending on appetite.
This enormous portion is important when evaluating the restaurant’s price. Some customers complain that the sandwiches are expensive, while others argue that the quantity of meat partly compensates for the cost.
2. The Hand-Carving Experience Is Part of the Appeal
Customers do not simply order a sandwich and receive it from a kitchen.
The meat is carved at the counter, and the interaction with the cutter is an important part of the Katz’s experience.
Visitors often mention watching the staff slice the pastrami, assemble the sandwiches and operate the busy counters.
Some reviewers also mention receiving a small taste of meat while waiting for their order.
For tourists, this makes Katz’s feel more like an experience than an ordinary sandwich shop.
The theatrical element is part of the restaurant’s identity.
3. The Reuben Is Another Major Favorite
Although pastrami on rye dominates the reviews, the Reuben sandwich receives substantial praise.
Customers frequently order the Reuben with pastrami or corned beef and mention the combination of meat, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut and dressing.
One recent Google reviewer described a Reuben with pastrami as one of the best sandwiches they had eaten, praising the soft bread, melted cheese, tender pastrami, mustard and balance of flavors.
Other reviewers describe the Reuben as enormous and heavily loaded with meat.
For visitors who do not want the simplest pastrami-and-mustard combination, the Reuben provides an alternative way to experience the deli’s signature meat.
4. Brisket Deserves More Attention
Recent reviews also highlight New York brisket.
One February 2026 Google reviewer specifically recommended the brisket, describing it as tender, moist and flavorful and contrasting it with Texas-style barbecue brisket. The reviewer particularly enjoyed it with rye, gravy and pickles.
This is significant because pastrami receives so much attention that other menu items can be overlooked.
The review pattern suggests that brisket can be a good choice for customers who enjoy slow-cooked beef but want something different from the classic pastrami sandwich.
At the same time, brisket does not appear nearly as frequently in reviews as pastrami.
5. Corned Beef Gets Mixed Reviews
Corned beef receives a more divided reaction.
Some customers love it and include it among their favorite Katz’s sandwiches.
Others find the corned beef less impressive than the pastrami.
A recent Google reviewer who enjoyed the pastrami described the corned beef as simply not matching their personal preference.
Another review aggregation similarly notes that while pastrami dominates the positive comments, some visitors consider the corned beef relatively ordinary.
This suggests that first-time visitors who want to experience the item most consistently associated with Katz’s tend to gravitate toward pastrami.
6. Pickles Are Frequently Praised
The pickles are a surprisingly important part of the Katz’s experience.
Customers frequently mention receiving both sour and half-sour pickles with their sandwiches.
Recent reviews describe the pickles as excellent and as a useful contrast to the richness of the meat.
Some visitors specifically mention eating the pickles between bites of pastrami.
The pickles therefore function as more than a side dish—they are part of the traditional deli experience.
7. Latkes Receive Strong Positive Feedback
Potato latkes also receive positive comments.
A recent February 2026 Google reviewer praised the latke for being crispy outside and soft inside.
For visitors who want something other than a giant meat sandwich, latkes provide a traditional Jewish-deli option.
They are also frequently recommended as an accompaniment rather than as the main dish.
8. Knishes Are Another Traditional Choice
Knishes receive positive reviews as well.
One recent Google reviewer mentioned trying square knishes alongside a pastrami Reuben and described them favorably.
Because Katz’s is strongly associated with pastrami, first-time tourists can easily overlook the broader deli menu.
Reviewers familiar with Jewish deli food sometimes recommend trying a knish, matzo ball soup or another traditional side in addition to the famous sandwich.
9. The Atmosphere Is Described as Authentic and Chaotic
The atmosphere is one of the most consistently discussed aspects of Katz’s.
Positive reviewers describe the restaurant as:
- Historic
- Authentic
- Loud
- Busy
- Energetic
- Old-fashioned
- Uniquely New York
Recent Google reviewers repeatedly describe the atmosphere as “chaotic” but in a positive or entertaining way.
The walls covered with photographs, memorabilia and historical references reinforce the feeling that visitors are entering an institution rather than a newly designed restaurant.
The atmosphere is therefore part of what customers are purchasing.
10. History Is a Major Part of the Experience
Katz’s history is repeatedly mentioned in positive reviews.
Visitors describe the restaurant as a piece of New York history and an important part of the city’s culinary identity.
The establishment dates to 1888, giving it more than a century of operating history. Its cultural profile was further increased by appearances in films and references in popular culture.
Many tourists therefore visit not solely because they are hungry but because Katz’s is a recognizable New York landmark.
Some reviewers explicitly say that the historical experience is worth visiting even if the food is not considered extraordinary.
11. The Famous Movie Connection Matters
The restaurant’s association with When Harry Met Sally is frequently mentioned.
Visitors who recognize the movie connection sometimes seek out the restaurant specifically because of it.
This contributes to the tourist atmosphere and helps explain why Katz’s receives such a high volume of visitors.
However, some reviewers are more interested in the food and history than the film connection.
12. Long Lines Are the Most Common Complaint
If there is one consistent criticism across the Google reviews, it is waiting.
Katz’s can have a significant line outside the restaurant, particularly during popular dining periods.
However, many reviewers emphasize that the line often moves faster than it initially appears.
One recent visitor reported a large line outside but said they entered in approximately ten minutes, followed by another wait at the cutter counter.
Other reviewers report considerably longer waits during peak periods.
A recent review described approximately 45 minutes outside followed by another substantial wait inside.
The difference demonstrates that waiting time can vary dramatically according to the day and time.
13. The Ordering System Can Be Confusing
Katz’s uses a distinctive ticket-based ordering system.
Visitors receive a ticket when entering, and the ticket is important for keeping track of orders and payment.
For first-time visitors, the process can be confusing.
Reviewers mention uncertainty about where to queue, which counter to use, how to order additional items and where payment occurs.
One recent Google reviewer described the system as stressful and confusing, particularly for first-time visitors.
The complexity is partly a consequence of the restaurant’s enormous volume of customers.
It is not organized like a conventional restaurant where a server takes the complete order at a table.
14. Losing the Ticket Is a Major Concern
Several reviews emphasize the importance of keeping the ticket.
The ticket system is central to the ordering and payment process, and losing the ticket can create complications.
One recent review specifically warned visitors not to lose their ticket.
For tourists unfamiliar with the system, this is one of the most useful practical observations contained in the reviews.
15. Service Gets Mixed Reviews
Service is somewhat more complicated than the food reviews.
Many customers praise the staff as experienced, efficient and capable of handling huge crowds.
Recent five-star Google reviews describe staff members as friendly and efficient despite the enormous number of customers.
However, other reviews describe the staff as rushed, abrupt or “robotic.”
The restaurant’s old-school style is not necessarily equivalent to modern hospitality.
Some customers interpret the brisk service as efficient and authentic.
Others expect more warmth and find the interactions unpleasant.
16. The Famous “Cranky” Deli Culture
Review aggregations frequently describe Katz’s as having a somewhat theatrical or famously brusque service culture.
This is part of the restaurant’s traditional identity.
For some customers, the attitude feels authentically New York.
For others, it can be uncomfortable.
Therefore, visitors should not necessarily expect a relaxed, quiet restaurant with highly attentive table service.
The environment is designed around volume and speed.
17. Prices Are One of the Biggest Sources of Disagreement
Price is perhaps the most divided issue after service.
Many visitors describe Katz’s sandwiches as expensive.
Recent reviews mention sandwiches costing around the high-$20s to $30-plus range, depending on the item and additions.
Some customers believe the large portions justify the price.
Others compare Katz’s with cheaper delis and conclude that the food is overpriced.
One recent Google reviewer said the portions were huge but believed the prices reflected the restaurant’s mainstream popularity.
This is a recurring pattern:
Large portions soften the price criticism, but they do not eliminate it.
18. Portion Size Is Almost Universally Noted
Regardless of whether customers think Katz’s is good value, they almost always mention the size of the sandwiches.
The meat is piled extremely high.
Several reviewers say that a single sandwich can be shared.
One recent review described the portions as massive and sufficient for two people depending on appetite.
Another visitor ordered three sandwiches for four people and still had leftovers.
This is an important consideration when ordering.
First-time visitors may underestimate how much food they are receiving.
19. Bread Receives More Mixed Feedback
While the meat is overwhelmingly the focus, some reviewers comment on the rye bread.
Positive reviews describe it as fresh and appropriate for the meat.
Other reviewers say the bread can become overwhelmed by the quantity of filling or sauces.
One recent reviewer complained that the rye bread broke apart under the weight of the meat and sauce.
This illustrates another recurring theme: the sandwiches are deliberately oversized, and that can be both a positive and a practical inconvenience.
20. Some Visitors Find the Food Overrated
Despite the overwhelmingly positive overall rating, not every reviewer believes Katz’s deserves its reputation.
Some customers describe the pastrami as good but not extraordinary.
Others say the meat was insufficiently flavorful, too cold or too tough.
One recent Google reviewer gave three stars and described both the pastrami and corned beef as mediocre, while still praising the bread and historical atmosphere.
Another recent reviewer said that the food was fine but that customers seeking the best possible pastrami might prefer other options.
These reviews are important because they demonstrate that the high overall rating does not mean universal agreement.
21. Expectations Strongly Affect Satisfaction
Katz’s is famous enough that many visitors arrive with extremely high expectations.
When the sandwich exceeds those expectations, reviewers sometimes describe it as the best pastrami they have ever eaten.
When it merely meets ordinary expectations, the experience can feel disappointing because of the price and waiting time.
This explains why some reviewers can simultaneously acknowledge the restaurant’s historical importance and criticize the food.
The Katz’s experience is greater than the sandwich itself.
22. Tourists Generally Appreciate the Experience
International visitors make up a significant part of the review corpus.
Many describe Katz’s as an essential stop when visiting New York.
They frequently combine the meal with sightseeing in the Lower East Side.
The combination of history, movie fame, huge sandwiches and distinctive atmosphere makes the restaurant especially appealing to tourists.
Some tourists say they would visit once for the experience rather than become regular customers.
23. Locals and Repeat Visitors Have More Nuanced Opinions
Repeat customers often have more detailed views.
They may recommend visiting outside peak hours, ordering specific cuts of meat or choosing pickup to avoid the lines.
Some repeat visitors appreciate Katz’s as a reliable New York institution.
Others say the food is no longer sufficiently distinctive to justify the price and crowds.
This is why the reviews should be interpreted as a mixture of destination dining and everyday deli experiences.
24. Best Time to Visit Is a Recurring Practical Theme
Reviewers repeatedly recommend avoiding peak hours.
Going early, later in the afternoon or during less busy periods may reduce waiting.
One recent owner response to a Google review suggested breakfast, the period between lunch and dinner, or late weekend nights as possible ways to avoid the heaviest crowds.
This advice is particularly relevant for tourists who have limited time in New York.
25. The Overall Google Review Pattern
The enormous Google-review sample can be summarized into several broad categories.
Most praised
Pastrami: The restaurant’s signature product and overwhelmingly dominant positive theme.
Portion size: Huge sandwiches with generous amounts of meat.
Historic atmosphere: Old-school, authentic and unmistakably New York.
Hand-carving: Watching the meat being sliced is part of the experience.
Pickles: Frequently praised as a classic accompaniment.
Brisket: Increasingly mentioned positively by recent reviewers.
Reuben: Popular alternative to the standard pastrami sandwich.
Staff efficiency: Many reviewers admire how quickly staff handle huge crowds.
Most criticized
Long lines: Particularly during peak periods.
Ordering system: Can be confusing for first-time visitors.
Prices: Frequently considered high.
Crowding: Tables can be close together and the restaurant can feel chaotic.
Service style: Some visitors find staff abrupt or impersonal.
Food expectations: Some visitors believe the food does not justify the reputation or price.
Portion size: The huge sandwiches can be difficult to eat and excessive for some customers.
Conclusion
The Google reviews of Katz’s Delicatessen NYC portray a restaurant that is much more than a place to buy a pastrami sandwich.
The current Google rating of approximately 4.5/5 from more than 55,000 reviews demonstrates a very strong overall customer response.
The most consistently praised element is unquestionably the pastrami. Customers repeatedly describe it as tender, juicy, flavorful and generously portioned. The hand-carving process adds an element of theater and tradition that makes the sandwich feel different from an ordinary deli order.
The Reuben, brisket, corned beef, latkes, knishes and pickles also receive significant attention, although none generates the same level of enthusiasm as the pastrami.
The second major attraction is the historic New York atmosphere. Visitors repeatedly describe Katz’s as authentic, loud, chaotic, energetic and full of character. Its long history and movie connection make it particularly attractive to tourists.
The main disadvantages are equally consistent: long queues, crowds, high prices and a complicated ticket-based ordering system.
Some customers consider these inconveniences a reasonable price for experiencing a famous New York institution. Others conclude that the food is not sufficiently exceptional to justify the waiting time and expense.
The reviews therefore reveal two different ways of experiencing Katz’s.
One is as a culinary destination: arrive hungry, order the pastrami, watch the cutters work, enjoy the pickles and absorb the atmosphere.
The other is as an ordinary deli: compare the price and sandwich quality with other New York delis and decide whether the premium is justified.
Both perspectives appear throughout the Google reviews.
The strongest common ground is that Katz’s remains a highly distinctive New York experience. Even reviewers who criticize the food, prices or service frequently acknowledge the restaurant’s historical significance and memorable atmosphere.
For first-time visitors, the review consensus is therefore less about whether every person will consider it the best pastrami in New York and more about understanding what Katz’s represents: a historic, enormous, crowded, old-school New York deli where the pastrami sandwich is the central attraction and the chaotic experience is part of the identity.